"We're always searching for players who can help our team and bringing in new talent,? Sporting Kansas City Manager Peter Vermes said in a news release. ?We know that Chad is an exceptional athlete and that he loves the sport of soccer, and he did play a lot when he was younger. We're excited to see how his skills will translate once he arrives next week and begins training with our team."

The team will decide whether to extend the trial period.

?Due to the NFL lockout, I?m excited to be able to follow my childhood dream of playing for a Major League Soccer team,? Ochocinco said. ?Thanks to Sporting Kansas City for giving me this opportunity.?

"Sport guys always talk about athletes who may be able to cross over," Vermes said. "There's no doubt he's an athlete. We'll see if he can fit in."

Ochocinco grew up playing soccer and he played competitively until attending Miami Beach Senior High School, the team said.

Ochocinco wouldn't be the first professional athlete to play multiple sports: Kansas City had Bo Jackson who played for the Kansas City Royals and in the NFL. And Michael Jordan tried minor league baseball before he returned to the NBA.